Tools/Resources used to determine where to buy multifamily -Chicago

[Robert Obniski]

Hello all,

Currently I am only buying and selling homes as far as my 'investing goes' but reading more and more content on buy and hold investing. I'm intrigued by the idea as a live in owner of a 4 flat somewhere here in Chicago.

Ive made it my goal to have purchased a 3-4 flat in Chicago and have myself living in one of the units. (Living in an apartment with my sister who is going nuts because of dental school is no fun) 

I'm still in the research stages of the process and know I will most likely be purchasing a building where the owner wants out or is foreclosed on. 

My question here is, when going to buy something like this which is an investment and a my new home all in one, where or what do I use to determine a good location?

I know i can do things like read the paper and be vigilant to find out where new schools or arenas or shopping centers are being built but how do I find out where teh good neighborhoods are, where rent is going up, where the new up and coming district is, etc

Chicago is a huge city and I'd really like to make this first purchase the right one. Any info is appreciated.

Thank you